The three Israeli hostages released by Hamas on Saturday were brought to an IDF facility in the Re'im community after handed over by the Red Cross. They met their family members after undergoing a physical and mental checkup.
The three hostages were identified as Sasha Troufanov, Iair Horn and Sagui Dekel-Chen. Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Office welcomed the freed hostages, saying the trio will assisted in their rehabilitation following 498 days in captivity.
Who is Sasha Troufanov?
Sasha Troufanov, 29, was working at the Amazon-owned Annapurna Labs, a microelectronics firm based in Israel.
He was abducted along with his girlfriend Sapir Cohen, mother Yelena "Lena" Trufanova and grandmother Irena Tati. His father, Vitaly Troufanov, was killed on October 7.
The mother and grandmother were released as per request of Russian President Vladimir Putin on November 29, 2023. Sapir Cohen was released on November 30, 2023, as part of a weeklong ceasefire deal.
Who is Iair Horn?
Iair Horn, 46, was abducted from Kibbutz Nir Oz where Hamas killed one-fourth of the residents. His brother, Eitan Horn, 38, is still in Hamas captivity.
Iair was working in construction and was responsible for the local pub in the kibbutz. He also used to conduct parties and holiday activities, according to The Times of Israel.
Who is Sagui Dekel-Chen?
Sagui Dekel-Chen was spotted smiling when the Israeli officials told him that he has a one-year-old daughter. Talking about his health, Dekel-Chen told Channel 12: "I’m great, I’m great, I have a daughter."
His wife, Avital Dekel-Chen, also expressed her happiness as she prepared to meet her husband.
Aged 36, Dekel-Chen was outside his home in Kibbutz Nir Oz when the Hamas attacked them. He ensured that his wife and children were safe before going out to fight the militants. His mother, Neomit, who was taken hostage in an electric cart was rescued after an IDF helicopter shot at the driver.